Every year, we host a family holiday party, and though a few folks couldn’t make it this year, we still had a wonderful time.
It always warms my heart to spend time with family, especially those I don’t see often. It’s not just about spreading Christmas cheer with food, games and prizes, but showing Quinn the importance of family togetherness. 🥰🎄
All the best,
Tanya
Quinn and I love watching Christmas movies together, so when Red One hit the theaters, we couldn’t wait to check it out. This movie did not disappoint. It was a nice combination of humor, love with a sprinkle of thought-provoking moments. We officially have another classic added to our list!
All the best,
Tanya
Kicking off 12 days of Christmas with a blast from the past. This makes the 12th year of celebrating Christmas with Quinn. While each year is filled with wonderful memories and family togetherness , the first one together will always have a special place in my heart.
All the best,
Tanya
On the Actual Day of Christmas, My Daughter Gave to Me…Nostalgia and Happiness
A Christmas gift I look forward each and every year is seeing my daughter’s smile, hearing her along with oohs and aahs and feeling her appreciation as she opens her Christmas gifts.
But something that made this year different was that she used her hard earned money to get me a thoughtful and heartfelt gift: a sterling silver mom necklace that projects, “I love you” in 100 languages. It came in a lovely box with little roses and a teddy bear that lights up. Though I encouraged her to hold onto her money, it makes me feel so good that was willing to spend her entire savings on me.
Another bonus was that many of the gifts she wanted this year were quite nostalgic as they brought back wonderful memories of my childhood playing games, doing crafts and making treats.
All the best,
Tanya
It’s Christmas Eve, and after some fun activities and outings, we’re ready for a relaxing day of watching Christmas movies and relaxing in our pajamas. 🤗🎄
All the best,
Tanya
Both my daughter and I love surprises. I was pleasantly surprised that she agreed to “twin” today in our Charlie Brown Christmas sweatshirts. While she was surprised to an evening of magic and illusions with Christmas twists, lights and music.
I’m so grateful for family time and outings, especially around this time of year. I can’t help but smile while in the festive environment, with delectable treats and extra time together.
All the best,
Tanya
Though my ten year old is technically the only child, it’s so nice knowing that she and her “little brother” our toy poodle have each other, especially around this time of the year.
Just like “human” siblings, they’re sometimes naughty together, getting into mischief or even fussing with each other about who gets to sit next to me on the sofa. But more times than not, they’re so sweet and have a nice time enjoying each other’s company.
I’m so grateful for them both as their presence alone are both special gifts in my life.
All the best,
Tanya
This week, leading up to winter break, my fifth grader has had the opportunity to wear something festive or fun for school.
Unfortunately, this is the age and grade where some kids get clowned for participating, so while Quinn was initially excited for this week, she opted not to participate in crazy hair day or ugly sweater day to avoid being teased and taunted. Though I encouraged her to do her own thing, I didn’t push the issue because I recall all too well how it feels to be taunted by classmates.
But with just two days left, she was eager to wear her festive, plaid pajamas for pajama day knowing that this is the one most kids will be excited to do. Here’s to hoping she was in good company today with her classmates and friends.
All the best,
Tanya
The Eighth Day of Christmas:
Eight years ago I posted about my fascination with Santa Claus and the North Pole and how my then two and a half was still learning about Christmas, Santa, where he lives and how he knows if she’s been naughty or nice.
Even though Quinn’s now ten, I’m so happy that she still looks forward to listening to Clementine, one of the head elves, Mrs. Claus, a few other characters and even Santa himself sharing little facts about what goes on in the North Pole from December 1st through December 25th.
All the best,
Tanya
The Elf on the Shelf’s been a part of my daughter’s life since she was two and a half. I remember how she initially thought the elf was Santa or Mrs. Claus and how I had to explain who she is and why she visits.
Quinn eventually named her Lola, and while I thought Quinn had outgrown her visits at ten and a half years old, she still seeks her out each morning and loves that her wardrobe continues to expand with each year.
This year, she was joined by a new friend, Snoop on the Stoop, which we both got a kick out of!
All the best,
Tanya
Mommy's Baby Steps 